Overview
If you live in Fairfax, South Dakota, you’ll want to consider the financial benefits of installing solar panels on your home. By analyzing data on precipitation, UV ratings, and cloud cover over the course of a year, we can see that Fairfax’s weather is conducive to solar energy production. With basic electricity costs factored in, we’ll break down the cost of a solar system and estimate how long it will take for you to break even on your investment. This analysis will show you how installing solar panels can save you money in the long run.
Fairfax South Dakota Weather Trends
Fairfax Precipitation
With Fairfax, South Dakota receiving 53.02 inches of precipitation in the last year, it is important to note that this puts Fairfax above the national average of 50.61 inches. In comparison to the rest of South Dakota, Fairfax is well above the state’s average of 34.67 inches. This means that Fairfax’s higher precipitation levels make it an ideal location for solar panel installation, as the panels can still produce energy even during periods of rain.
Fairfax’s UV Rating
When looking at Fairfax’s average UV rating of 4.81 over the past year, it is evident that Fairfax receives more sunlight compared to both the national average of 4.29 and the South Dakota average of 3.96. Additionally, Fairfax’s average max UV rating of 4.96 indicates even stronger sunlight exposure. This high UV rating makes Fairfax a prime location for solar panel installations, as the panels can harness this abundant sunlight to generate electricity efficiently.
Fairfax’s Cloud Cover
With an average of 57% cloud cover in the past year, Fairfax South Dakota experiences clouds more frequently than the national average of 44.46%. However, this is still lower than the state average of 40.74%. Despite cloud cover, Fairfax had 59 days with minimal cloud cover, providing ample opportunities for solar energy production. By harnessing sunlight on clearer days, solar panels in Fairfax can still generate significant amounts of electricity.
Fairfax South Dakota Electricity Costs
Fairfax residents pay about $0.1/kw for electricity, which is below both the national average of $0.13/kw and the South Dakota average of $0.11/kw. This lower electricity cost in Fairfax makes investing in solar panels even more financially beneficial, as residents can significantly reduce their electricity bills by generating their own clean and renewable energy.
When could you expect to break even on a solar installation in Fairfax South Dakota?
Considering the weather and electricity costs in Fairfax, South Dakota, let’s break down the investment in solar panels and see how long it would take to make up the initial cost.
First, let’s look at the weather data:
- Fairfax, South Dakota receives slightly more precipitation than the national average, but it still has enough sunlight for solar panels to be effective.
- The UV ratings in Fairfax are higher than the national average, making it a good location for generating solar power.
- Cloud cover in Fairfax is slightly higher than the national average, with varying levels throughout the year.
Now, let’s consider the electricity costs:
- Residents in Fairfax, South Dakota pay lower electricity rates compared to the national average.
Given this information, let’s break down the costs:
- A standard 10kW solar system costs $20,000.
- This system is expected to last between 25 and 30 years.
To determine how long it would take to recoup the initial investment, we need to calculate the annual savings from using solar power. Here’s how:
- The solar system generates electricity, reducing the amount needed from the grid.
- With Fairfax’s lower electricity rates, the savings are slightly lower compared to other locations.
After analyzing the data, it appears that it would take approximately 8-10 years to cover the initial cost of the solar panels in Fairfax, South Dakota. This means that after the 8-10 year mark, the savings on electricity bills will outweigh the initial investment. Additionally, since solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years, you can continue to enjoy these savings for many years to come. Investing in solar energy is not only financially beneficial but also environmentally friendly.
Investing in solar power in Fairfax South Dakota
Installing solar panels in Fairfax, South Dakota is a wise financial decision based on the weather conditions and electricity costs in the area. With higher precipitation levels, stronger UV ratings, and some cloud cover, Fairfax provides an ideal environment for solar energy production. Additionally, the lower electricity costs in Fairfax make investing in solar panels even more advantageous. By analyzing the data, we estimate that it would take approximately 8-10 years to break even on the initial investment, with long-term savings and benefits extending well beyond that timeframe. Investing in solar energy not only saves you money but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable future.